Tree Cutting, Trimming and Pruning - Know the Difference

Is pruning and trimming the same? The answer is no. Pruning is used to remove unnecessary branches. Trimming on the other hand promotes healthy growth. Both services are performed at different times of the year, using vastly different types of equipment, to provide a better aesthetic and a healthier landscape. Understanding the difference though is crucial.

Let us understand the difference better. Tree trimming helps trees, shrubs and hedges grow in a healthy manner. Trimming gives your trees a better appearance making your property look more attractive. Pruning on the other hand is not just limited to tree maintenance. The term is often associated with the removal of unnecessary branches and sometimes even roots. These branches and roots may be dead and need to be cut away from the tree.

Proper tools are essential for effective pruning. Here are 6 tools that are used for pruning:

1. Hand Pruners - used to prune small branches. They can cut any branch up to half an inch in diameter.

2. Lopping Shears - used to prune branches up to 2 inches in diameter. They have a pair of long handles that are operated by two hands.

3. Hedge Shears - are used primarily for shearing plants into hedges, or altering their shape.

4. Pruning Saws - useful for cutting large branches over one inch in diameter.

5. Chainsaws - used for removing trees and cutting firewood.

6. Pole Pruners - used to cut otherwise inaccessible branches.

We know that tree trimming is not an easy task for you to undertake on your own. To help you make sure that your trees are properly trimmed and maintained, you can always turn to tree trimming companies.

Why is tree trimming important?

Landscaping trees add beauty and value to your property. Maintaining this appearance is essential to protect that value. Here are four reasons tree trimming is important:

1. Tree Appearance - trees that aren’t regularly trimmed can grow to look unbalanced and misshapen. Branches may sprout off in strange directions and this uneven growth can make your trees appear bedraggled.

Trimming is like a much-needed haircut, one that enhances the tree’s natural shape. Thinning out limbs and cutting back unwieldy branches is beneficial because it improves the tree’s appearance. Trimming is especially important for those trees you planted to boost the appeal of a property.

1. Landscape Aesthetics - When you don’t regularly trim trees, the aesthetics of your landscape can be affected.

Densely packed branches can block sun and prevent rain from reaching the grass and flowers growing under trees, inhibiting their growth. Regular tree trimming can ensure that enough sunlight and moisture get through the branches. In addition, trimming can enhance your landscape’s appearance by removing limbs that obstruct your view of a lake, valley or other scenery.

1. Tree Health - Overgrowth negatively affects the health of a tree. Without trimming, trees can become weaker and will be less likely to survive.

• Trimming for tree health is often referred to as pruning, and it involves removing branches that are diseased, infested or interfering with healthy growth. Regular trimming keeps trees strong, creates a healthier structure and reduces the need for future corrective pruning.

1. Safety - Property safety is another important reason regular tree trimming is necessary.

Trees with dead, diseased or infected branches pose a significant risk. In heavy winds or a severe storm, the limbs can fall easily and damage your property and your home — and someone could get badly injured. The presence of hazardous branches is the most critical reason to get your trees trimmed periodically.

If you’re convinced that regular tree trimming is a must, hire a certified local arborist for the job. An arborist will give your trees the best possible care and ensure that they continue to grow strong and beautiful for many years to come.